The Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .50 cal .500 325 gr AFHP Review You’ve Been Looking For
For those wielding the considerable power of a .500 caliber revolver, ammunition choice isn’t just a matter of preference; it’s a critical decision impacting accuracy, terminal performance, and ultimately, success in the field. The Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .50 cal .500 325 gr AFHP promise a blend of controlled expansion and deep penetration, a combination often sought but rarely perfectly achieved. These bullets are designed to offer full metal jacket penetration with soft point expansion. But do they truly deliver on this promise in real-world scenarios?
My journey to these bullets began with a quest for truly reliable stopping power for hunting dangerous game. I needed a round that could deliver devastating energy transfer while maintaining integrity through thick hide and bone. Many rounds promise the world, but field performance rarely lives up to the marketing hype.
Unboxing the Swift A-Frame Revolver Bullets revealed a box of 50 meticulously crafted projectiles. They felt solid, the hollow point cavity looked precisely formed, and the overall appearance exuded quality craftsmanship. Initial impressions suggested these were more than just ordinary bullets.
Compared to similar offerings from Barnes and Hornady, the Swift A-Frame distinguished itself with its unique bonded core and jacket design. I opted for the Swift bullets because of the promised weight retention and controlled expansion, which are vital for ethical hunting of large and dangerous game. My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of skepticism – could these bullets really live up to the hype?
Real-World Testing: Putting Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .50 cal .500 325 gr AFHP to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Swift A-Frame Revolver Bullets at my local range, focusing on accuracy and consistency at 50 and 100 yards. The weather was typical for early spring, with intermittent rain and a slight crosswind. This would provide a good first test of consistency.
The bullets performed admirably, consistently grouping within 2 inches at 50 yards and 4 inches at 100 yards from my .500 S&W Magnum revolver. Recoil was stout, as expected, but manageable. There were no failures to feed or eject.
The ease of use was straightforward; these are, after all, bullets. The loading process was uneventful, and the rounds chambered smoothly. After the first use, I was encouraged but needed more extensive testing under more demanding conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of range practice and simulated hunting scenarios, the Swift A-Frame Revolver Bullets continued to impress. I even used them on a feral hog hunt in Texas. The bullets held up remarkably well. There were no signs of degradation or performance loss.
Durability appears to be a strong point. The bonded core and jacket construction seem to prevent deformation during loading and firing. Maintenance is virtually non-existent, as they are bullets, but proper storage is crucial to prevent corrosion.
Compared to my previous experiences with other .500 S&W Magnum rounds, the Swift A-Frame bullets consistently outperformed in terms of accuracy and controlled expansion. They instilled a greater sense of confidence, especially when considering potential encounters with dangerous game.
Breaking Down the Features of Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .50 cal .500 325 gr AFHP
Specifications
- Caliber: .500
- Bullet Weight: 325 grains
- Bullet Type: A-Frame Hollow Point (AFHP)
- Quantity: 50 bullets
- Manufacturer: Swift Bullet Company
The .500 caliber delivers substantial energy on impact. The 325-grain weight strikes a balance between manageable recoil and sufficient penetration for large game. The A-Frame Hollow Point design promotes controlled expansion and weight retention.
Performance & Functionality
The Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets excels at delivering controlled expansion and deep penetration. Accuracy is excellent, and the bonded core ensures the bullet retains a significant portion of its weight after impact. This creates a large wound channel and maximizes energy transfer.
The major strength is the reliable and consistent terminal performance. The primary weakness might be the relatively high cost per bullet. These bullets meet and even exceed expectations for a premium hunting round.
Design & Ergonomics
The bullets are well-designed, with a streamlined profile that aids in smooth feeding and consistent accuracy. The bonded core and jacket construction are visibly robust, ensuring structural integrity upon impact. Their weight contributes to the substantial recoil of the .500 S&W Magnum.
These bullets are user-friendly in that they load easily into cartridges and perform reliably. There’s no real learning curve beyond proper reloading techniques.
Durability & Maintenance
The Swift A-Frame bullets are inherently durable due to their bonded construction. They should last indefinitely if stored properly. Maintenance is minimal; keep them clean and dry.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets themselves do not require accessories. However, they can be used with various reloading components, such as different powders and primers, to fine-tune performance. Some reloaders might choose to crimp the bullets for added security in heavy-recoiling revolvers. Compatibility with various brass casings is generally excellent.
Pros and Cons of Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .50 cal .500 325 gr AFHP
Pros
- Excellent accuracy and consistency. Consistent groupings at various ranges.
- Controlled expansion and deep penetration. Delivers devastating energy transfer.
- High weight retention. Bonded core ensures reliable performance.
- Robust construction. Built to withstand high-impact scenarios.
- Reliable terminal performance. Performs consistently on game.
Cons
- Relatively high cost. Premium performance comes at a price.
- Recoil. The .500 S&W Magnum is already a hard-kicking round, and these bullets add to the recoil.
Who Should Buy Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .50 cal .500 325 gr AFHP?
These bullets are perfect for hunters pursuing large and dangerous game, such as bear, boar, or even African game. They are also suitable for individuals seeking maximum stopping power in a revolver for personal defense in areas where large predators are a concern.
Those who prioritize cost over performance or who are recoil-sensitive might want to explore other options. Those who only target small game, the stopping power of the .500 is not necessary.
A high-quality reloading setup and a reliable .500 S&W Magnum revolver are must-have “accessories”. An optic or sights that can withstand heavy recoil are also recommended.
Conclusion on Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .50 cal .500 325 gr AFHP
The Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .50 cal .500 325 gr AFHP are premium projectiles designed for serious hunters and shooters who demand the utmost in accuracy and terminal performance. The price is justified by the superior performance and the confidence they inspire.
I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone who relies on a .500 S&W Magnum for hunting dangerous game or for defense against large predators. If you demand the best and are willing to pay for it, the Swift A-Frame bullets are an excellent choice. Invest in your peace of mind; you won’t be disappointed.
Read the full article here
